Bolivian teachers hold national strike against government

Bolivian teachers conducted a 24-hour national strike on Friday, marching through the streets of La Paz to demand increased investment in education, higher salaries, and improved working conditions.

The mobilization represents the first major protest against President Rodrigo Paz since the government declared a state of exception, a measure intended to address internal crises such as road blockades and strikes. Although the state of exception, extended until December 20, 2026, formally prohibits public marches, demonstrators gathered in front of the Ministry of Education despite heavy rain and a strong police presence.

The teachers' union stated it is defending the public education system and rejecting government proposals for decentralization and privatization. In response, Education Minister Erick Sanjines denied intentions to privatize, noting that current proposals only aim to transfer the administration of technical and technological institutes from the federal government to regional authorities.